Deodorants, which primarily aim to mask body odor produced by sweat metabolizing bacteria
The human body sweats for various reasons, including to lower body temperature in the heat, during exercise, fever, infection, etc. While sweat itself is odorless, it creates an unpleasant odor when it comes into contact with skin bacteria. The main culprits behind body odor are apocrine glands, which are found in areas like the armpits and groin.
Deodorants have a bactericidal effect and therefore prevent the formation of unpleasant odors resulting from the bacterial decomposition process of sweat. At the same time, the perfumed products cause unpleasant body odor. To achieve a bactericidal effect and enhance the odor, deodorants contain odor absorbers, perfumes, antimicrobial agents or enzyme inhibitors. The effectiveness of a deodorant depends not only on the quality and composition of the active ingredients used, but also on the carriers of the formulation. Regardless of whether the product is in the form of a spray, atomizer, roller or stick – a deodorant contains water, caring oils and emulsifiers. Odor absorbers have no effect on the formation of sweat or on skin bacteria. They mask the odor of sweat so that the unpleasant odor is not perceived and also slow down the rate of odor diffusion. The use of antimicrobial agents or antimicrobial agents is of particular importance in preventing the spread of body odor. They act selectively on the bacteria that cause body odor and regulate (reduce) their growth. Many fragrances and essential oils, such as clove oil (EUGENOL), peppermint oil (MENTHOL) or thyme oil (THYMOL), have antimicrobial properties.
There are basically three ways to deodorize or mask body odor: 1. Prevent odor formation by controlling the causative bacteria. 2. Bind volatile and unpleasant compounds. 3. Masking the odor with aromatic oils.
The most important method of control is through bacteria. The ability to mask odors with aromatic oils is as old as perfume itself and is used in almost all deodorants at least as an additional effect.
Deodorants are used to cover up unpleasant odors.